How to Become a Mad Scientist

Mad scientists need education, preparation and the right image.

It is the subject of many children's playtime fantasies, but for a certain few people, becoming a mad scientist is a life-long passion. Inspired by Mary Shelley's "Dr. Frankenstein," the silver screen's Dr. Evil or anyone in between, turning oneself into the archetypal mad scientist requires more than a lab coat and unkempt hair. The transformation demands a solid education, diligent preparation and a suitable environment to project an appropriately "mad" mystique.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Classic mad scientist films (for reference)
• Beakers, burners, and other lab equipment of your choosing

1. Secure at least a bachelor's degree in science to establish a groundwork of scientific knowledge. Without expertise in the field, your mad antics won't have the credibility they need to gain attention in the scientific community. The more prestigious your schooling, the more serious your extreme plans will be taken. According to U.S. News and World Report, the University of Cambridge is the top ranked university in the world for physical and natural sciences, while Harvard University tops the list for life sciences and biomedicine.

2. Devise a master plan toward which all your scientific pursuits can be directed. If you're not careful, your experiment might be construed as legitimate, well-intentioned science, which is damaging to the burgeoning reputation of a true mad scientist. Ensure that each of your discoveries is paired with an explanation of how it will help you accomplish your maniacal desires. For inspiration for your master plan, check out classic films such as "Island of Lost Souls" and "Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery."

3. Create an ominous environment for your workplace. Find chemical combinations such as potassium and water that smoke, flame, or hiss when mixed. If you can't get your hands on heavy-duty chemicals, a simple mix of baking soda, vinegar, and food coloring in a few of your beakers will do the trick. Amplify your mad scientist image by always wearing a white lab coat and letting personal hygiene go untended. The more consumed in your work you appear, the madder you will seem.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not mix any chemicals or substances without first researching the reaction of the mixture and any harmful effects it may produce.

References

• "U.S. News and World Report"; World's Best Universities
• StrangeMag: Mad Scientists and the Movies
• Lenntech: Potassium (K) and Water